Photo Freshly baked scones

How to make homemade scones for a quintessential afternoon tea

Afternoon tea is a cherished British tradition that evokes a sense of elegance and comfort. It is more than just a meal; it is an experience steeped in history and social significance. Originating in the early 19th century, this delightful ritual was popularised by Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, who found herself feeling peckish in the late afternoon.

To remedy her hunger, she began inviting friends to join her for tea and light refreshments, thus giving birth to what we now know as afternoon tea. As we gather around the table, we partake in a moment that transcends mere sustenance, allowing us to connect with one another over a shared appreciation for fine food and drink. The quintessential afternoon tea typically features an array of delectable treats, with scones taking centre stage.

These delightful baked goods, often served warm and accompanied by clotted cream and jam, are a staple of this beloved tradition. As we prepare to embark on our own afternoon tea journey, we find ourselves drawn to the art of making homemade scones. The process not only allows us to indulge in a delicious treat but also invites us to embrace the joy of baking and the satisfaction of creating something from scratch.

With each step, we immerse ourselves in the rich tapestry of British culture, celebrating the simple pleasures that come from sharing food and conversation with loved ones.

Summary

  • Afternoon tea is a quintessential British tradition, typically served between 3-5pm, and consists of tea, sandwiches, cakes, and scones.
  • When making homemade scones, it’s important to use high-quality ingredients such as self-raising flour, cold butter, caster sugar, and buttermilk.
  • To prepare the scone dough, gently mix the dry ingredients with the cold butter until it resembles breadcrumbs, then add the buttermilk and mix until just combined.
  • When shaping and cutting the scones, use a floured cutter to press straight down without twisting, as this will help the scones rise evenly.
  • Bake the scones in a preheated oven at 220°C for 10-12 minutes until they are golden brown and have a light, fluffy texture inside.

Choosing the right ingredients for homemade scones

When it comes to crafting the perfect scone, the choice of ingredients is paramount. We begin with flour, which forms the foundation of our scone dough. For traditional scones, plain flour is often recommended, as it provides the right balance of structure and tenderness.

However, some may opt for self-raising flour to achieve a lighter texture, as the added raising agents help the scones rise beautifully during baking. Regardless of our choice, we must ensure that our flour is fresh and of good quality, as this will significantly impact the final result. Next, we turn our attention to the fat component.

Butter is the classic choice for scone-making, imparting a rich flavour and tender crumb. We should use unsalted butter, as this allows us to control the saltiness of our scones. It is essential to ensure that the butter is cold when we incorporate it into the flour; this helps create a flaky texture that is characteristic of a well-made scone.

Additionally, we will need sugar for sweetness, milk or cream for moisture, and a pinch of salt to enhance the overall flavour. By carefully selecting these ingredients, we set ourselves up for success in our quest for homemade scones that are both delicious and satisfying.

Preparing the scone dough

With our ingredients gathered, we can now embark on the exciting process of preparing our scone dough. We begin by sifting our chosen flour into a large mixing bowl, ensuring that it is light and airy. This step not only removes any lumps but also incorporates air into the mixture, which is crucial for achieving a light texture.

Once sifted, we add the sugar and salt, mixing them together to create an even distribution throughout the flour. Next, we cut in the cold butter using our fingertips or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. This technique is vital; it allows small pieces of butter to remain within the flour, which will melt during baking and create those coveted flaky layers.

Once we have achieved this texture, we make a well in the centre of our mixture and gradually pour in the milk or cream. As we gently mix with a fork or our hands, we must be careful not to overwork the dough; this can lead to tough scones rather than the light and tender treats we desire. The goal is to bring the dough together until it forms a cohesive ball, ready for shaping.

Shaping and cutting the scones

Once our dough has come together, it is time to shape and cut our scones into their iconic form. We begin by lightly flouring our work surface to prevent sticking. Gently turning out our dough onto this floured surface, we take care not to knead it excessively; instead, we pat it down into a thick disc about two inches high.

This gentle handling ensures that our scones remain tender and do not become dense. Using a sharp knife or a round cutter, we can now cut out our scones. It is important to press straight down without twisting; twisting can seal the edges and prevent them from rising properly during baking.

We can gather any leftover dough scraps and gently knead them together to cut out additional scones, but we must remember that overworking the dough can compromise their texture. Once cut, we place our scones on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for expansion in the oven.

Baking the scones to perfection

As we prepare to bake our scones, preheating the oven is essential; a hot oven will help create that lovely rise we are aiming for. We typically set our oven temperature to around 220 degrees Celsius (or 200 degrees Celsius for fan ovens), ensuring it is adequately heated before placing our tray inside. While waiting for the oven to reach temperature, we can brush the tops of our scones with a little milk or beaten egg; this will give them a beautiful golden colour as they bake.

Once our oven is ready, we slide in the tray of scones and set a timer for approximately 12-15 minutes. During this time, we can marvel at how our creations begin to rise and develop a lovely golden crust. It is crucial not to open the oven door too soon; doing so can cause them to collapse before they have fully set.

Instead, we can peek through the oven window and watch as they transform into fluffy delights. When they are ready, we remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.

Serving suggestions for homemade scones

Now that our scones are baked to perfection, it’s time to consider how best to serve them. Traditionally, scones are enjoyed warm and accompanied by clotted cream and jam—an irresistible combination that elevates their flavour profile. We can opt for strawberry jam for a classic pairing or experiment with other fruit preserves such as raspberry or apricot for a delightful twist.

The key is to ensure that whatever jam we choose complements the buttery richness of the scone. In addition to cream and jam, we might also consider serving our scones with fresh fruit or even a drizzle of honey for those who prefer a touch of sweetness without additional spreads. A pot of freshly brewed tea should accompany our scones; whether it’s Earl Grey or English Breakfast, tea adds an essential element to this afternoon ritual.

As we arrange everything on a beautiful platter or tiered stand, we create an inviting display that beckons friends and family to indulge in this delightful treat.

Pairing homemade scones with traditional afternoon tea accompaniments

To truly embrace the spirit of afternoon tea, pairing our homemade scones with traditional accompaniments is essential. Alongside clotted cream and jam, we might consider adding finger sandwiches filled with cucumber, smoked salmon, or egg mayonnaise—these light bites provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the scones. The delicate nature of these sandwiches complements the overall experience while offering variety.

Additionally, we can include an assortment of pastries and cakes on our tea table. Miniature Ă©clairs, fruit tarts, or Victoria sponge cake can add an element of indulgence that rounds out our afternoon tea spread beautifully. Each item contributes its unique flavour and texture while maintaining harmony within the overall presentation.

As we sip our tea and savour each bite, we create an atmosphere of warmth and conviviality that makes afternoon tea such a cherished tradition.

Tips for hosting a delightful afternoon tea with homemade scones

Hosting an afternoon tea centred around homemade scones can be an enjoyable experience filled with laughter and connection. To ensure everything runs smoothly, planning ahead is key. We should prepare as much as possible in advance—baking our scones early in the day allows us time to focus on other elements of our gathering without feeling rushed.

Setting an inviting table is equally important; using fine china or mismatched vintage teacups adds charm and character to our tea party. Fresh flowers or greenery can enhance the aesthetic appeal while creating a warm atmosphere for our guests. As we welcome friends into our home, offering them a selection of teas alongside our freshly baked scones creates an inviting experience that encourages conversation and connection.

Finally, embracing flexibility during our gathering allows us to enjoy ourselves fully without becoming overly concerned about perfection. Whether it’s adjusting recipes based on dietary preferences or simply allowing guests to serve themselves at their leisure, fostering an environment of relaxation ensures everyone leaves feeling satisfied and cherished. In this way, hosting an afternoon tea becomes not just about food but about creating lasting memories with those we hold dear.

In conclusion, as we delve into the world of homemade scones and afternoon tea traditions, we find ourselves celebrating not only delicious food but also cherished moments spent with loved ones. By carefully selecting ingredients, mastering techniques, and embracing creativity in presentation and pairing options, we can create an unforgettable experience that honours this timeless British tradition while making it uniquely ours.

If you’re looking to enjoy a quintessential afternoon tea with homemade scones, you may also be interested in finding a balance between work and personal life. According to a recent article on FOI News, it’s important to prioritize self-care and relaxation in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle. By taking time for yourself and enjoying simple pleasures like baking scones, you can create a more harmonious work-life balance. Additionally, if you’re facing challenges in starting a new business, another article on FOI News offers valuable insights on overcoming obstacles and achieving success in your entrepreneurial endeavors.

FAQs

What are scones?

Scones are a traditional British baked good that are typically served at afternoon tea. They are a type of quick bread, similar to a biscuit, and are often sweetened with sugar and flavored with fruits such as currants or raisins.

What ingredients are needed to make homemade scones?

The basic ingredients for homemade scones include flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, butter, milk, and optional add-ins such as dried fruit or chocolate chips.

What is the traditional way to serve scones?

Scones are traditionally served with clotted cream and jam as part of a classic afternoon tea. The scone is split in half and the clotted cream and jam are spread on each half before being eaten.

What is the best way to enjoy homemade scones?

Homemade scones are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, with a generous dollop of clotted cream and a spoonful of jam. They are often served alongside a pot of hot tea for a quintessential British afternoon tea experience.

Can scones be made in advance?

Yes, scone dough can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Once baked, scones are best enjoyed on the same day, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days.